The Los Angeles Lakers have announced that they will honor the late Jerry West, a true basketball legend, by displaying his iconic No. 44 on their jerseys for all 82 games of the upcoming season. This heartfelt tribute serves as a fitting acknowledgment of West's immense impact on the team and the sport as a whole.

Jerry West, who spent his entire 14-year illustrious career with the Lakers, was not only a phenomenal player but also an accomplished coach and a highly successful executive within the organization. West passed away in June at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of basketball enthusiasts.

Known as one of the greatest shooting guards in the history of the game, West led the Lakers to an impressive nine NBA Finals appearances, ultimately clinching the championship during the 1971-72 season. With his exceptional skills, West secured a spot on the All-Star team an astounding 14 times. His scoring prowess is evident through his career average of 27.03 points per game, currently ranking him eighth in NBA history.

Affectionately nicknamed "Mr. Clutch" for his remarkable ability to deliver under pressure, West received the prestigious honor of being named to the All-NBA team 12 times. In 1969, he also became the first recipient of the NBA Finals MVP award, despite being part of the runner-up team—an achievement that remains unique to this day.

West's influence extended beyond his playing days, as he played a crucial role in shaping the iconic "Showtime" Lakers of the 1980s, who went on to capture five NBA championships. Additionally, he played a significant part in assembling the formidable duo of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal, leading to three consecutive championship victories.

To commemorate Jerry West's enduring impact, the Lakers have planned a special tribute on the opening night of the regular season. As they host the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 22, the team will honor West by offering fans the opportunity to receive a No. 44 jersey giveaway.

With the announcement of this moving tribute, the Los Angeles Lakers are not only honoring Jerry West's basketball legacy but also celebrating the immeasurable contributions he made to the franchise. As the team dons West's iconic number on their uniforms throughout the season, they will carry his memory and influence with pride, symbolizing the everlasting mark he left on the Lakers and the game of basketball itself.